Events should be received by The Courant a minimum of 14 days in advance. Please include the full address and ZIP code of the event location and an information phone number. For additional events, visit ctnow.com.

Today

Avon: Environmental program, 7 p.m., Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Road, Avon. Energy independence. Christine Woodside, author of Homeowners guide to energy independence: alternative power sources for the average American. She will speak on how to lessen the use of fossil fuels, plus basic, viable alternative energy options, including woodstoves and conservation techniques.

Friday

New Hartford: Singer/songwriter duo and wine tasting, 7 p.m., The Licia & Mason Beekley Community Library, New Hartford. Julie Searles & Matthew Allen will perform Brazilian popular music, jazz Irish folk music and original compositions for voice, piano and guitar. To reserve a seat call 860-379-7235.

West Hartford: Reading with Rocky and the Rock Cats, 9:30 - 11 a.m., The Children's Museum (formerly the Science Center of Connecticut), 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford. This weekly storytelling series will be held Friday mornings during July and August in the exhibit hall. The New Britain Rock Cats' mascot, Rocky, will be joined by a storyteller to read tales of sports and athletic feats to children ages 12 and younger. For information call 860-231-2830.

Harwinton: Ongoing support group for all needs held every first and third Saturday, 10 a.m., Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 78 Litchfield Road, Harwinton. For information call Charmaine Emond, 860-485-9365 or Louise Sienkiewicz, 860-674-1806..

Sunday

Torrington: Annual cycling tour, 7 a.m., Coe Park, Torrington. To benefit The Center for Cancer Care Fund, Inc. Provides financial assistance and community resources to help with the care, treatment, education and prevention of cancer for residents living in Northwest Conn. A registration fee of $30 per adult, $15 for children under 12, and $50 for a family of five or less. For more information call 860-496-6544.

West Hartford: Free Sundays, The Children's Museum (formerly the Science Center of Connecticut), 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford. The Museum will be open free of charge on the first Sunday of every month for one year beginning March 4 and ending February 2008. For information visit www.The ChildrensMuseumCT.org.

West Hartford: International Folk dance, 7 p.m., Masonic Hall, 11 S. Main St., West Hartford. No partner or experience needed. Wear comfortable, clean-soled low heeled shoes. Refreshments will be served. For information call 860-621-6440 or 860-742-1035. Also will be held on August 26.

Monday

Farmington: Benefits check-up program, 10 a.m., Farmington Community Center, 321 New Britain Ave., Farmington. A comprehensive web-based service to screen for programs for seniors with limited income or resources. Benefits may include prescription drugs, tax relief, energy assistance, and more. To sign up call 860-675-2490.

Litchfield: Rehabilitation organization, 7 p.m., Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Road , Litchfield. Guest speaker will be Julie Collier of Wingmasters, an education raptor rehabilitation organization. She will present a program featuring five live birds of prey which include eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Followed by a business meeting for Audubon members. Refreshments. Public is welcome.

Unionville: The Benefits Check-up Program, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Farmington Senior Center, 321 New Britain Ave., Unionville. The program is a web-based service that screens for programs for seniors with limited income and resources. Benefits may include prescription drugs, tax relief, energy assistance, and more. Call the senior center to sign up at 860-675-2490.

Tuesday

Farmington: Socialization and Recreation Program for Older Adults, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Farmington Senior and Community Center, 321 New Britain Ave., Unionville. Free. Sponsored by Farmington Community Services.. This program is open to all seniors. Different types of medial will be used including music, food activities and arts and crafts. This program runs every Tuesday. For questions call Lynn Cybulski at 860-675-2390.

Granby: Mother Goose, also known as Valentine Shaw, 10:30 a.m., Granby Public Library, 15 N. Granby Road , Granby. To be held on the library lawn or at the senior center if it rains. All fans of Mother Goose are welcome.